We are proposing to reintroduce grazing to Chorleywood Common, Colney Health, Nomansland and Bricket Wood Common
Why are we looking to reintroduce grazing to these Commons?
In the past, cattle and sheep would have been seen on all of the common land around Hertfordshire. Unfortunately this generally ceased around the time of the last world war, and as a result the landscape began to change. Trees began to take over where once there were wildflower meadows and lowland heath. No one really noticed this happening until it became clear that we were losing a significant amount of these precious habitats. A lot of work has been put into restoring the meadows and reclaiming the heath from tree cover, but the best management is to reintroduce grazing animals.
On all of these Commons there are people with the rights to graze animals. They could put them back on tomorrow if they wished! We need to ensure that the animals, the users of the Commons and people travelling through the area are kept as safe as possible.
Will people still be allowed to use the Commons?
Yes. We have no intention of restricting access to the proposed fenced areas. Pedestrian gates and horse gates will be installed where necessary to enable people to cotinue to use existing paths. As with any open space, dogs will have to be kept under control. For some dogs this will mean being kept on a lead while there are grazing animals on the Common.
Consultation
Follow the links to find out more about each of the Commons and where fencing would be required to enable it to happen.
Initial consultation has now finished and the results are being evaluated. More information will be available at a later date.
The Partnership
The South Hertfordshire Commons Grazing Group has representatives from the parish councils of Chorleywood and Colney Heath, along with St Albans District Council and the Countryside Management Service. The group has come together as a partnership to move towards reintroducing grazing to the 4 commons under their management. By working together we can share skills and good practice, and ensure that as many people as possible know about the proposals and have an opportunity to comment on them.
For more information please contact us.
